Can you freeze insulated water bottles?

While you might be tempted to freeze an insulated water bottle to make it even colder, it is not recommended as it will cause the water bottle to crack or the insulating properties to weaken. Since most insulated water bottles are made from rigid materials like stainless steel, they do not have the flexibility of plastic bottles. This means that when the water expands upon being frozen, an insulated water bottle will not be able to expand with it.

Do insulated water bottles stop working after a period of time?

Most insulated water bottles can only maintain the temperature of your water for a certain period of time, depending on the bottle’s specific insulation properties. Usually, after 12, 24, or 48 hours you will need to replace the water.

How do you clean an insulated water bottle?

If an insulated water bottle is listed as dishwasher-safe, you can run it through the dishwasher after removing the cap. However, it is recommended that you clean your water bottle by hand every once in a while for a more thorough, effective clean. You can use either a bottle brush or a clean cloth and regular dish soap. It’s also important that you scrub all of the deep corners within the bottle. For an occasional deep clean, use vinegar, baking soda, or hydrogen peroxide as a cleaning agent. This will help disinfect and sanitize your water bottle—for baking soda and vinegar, combine the agents with water and let it soak overnight, then rinse it out. Hydrogen peroxide should only be used if there is a musty or metallic smell that won’t go away after attempting other cleaning methods. Put around 60 milliliters of hydrogen peroxide in the bottle and give it a few shakes, then rinse it out.

Can you bring an insulated water bottle on a plane?

Using a reusable, insulated water bottle is not only better for the environment, but it’s also more convenient for you. So, if you’re heading on a trip, you don’t have to worry about throwing out your water bottle at airport security and buying a new one. You can check your bottle through the TSA as long as it is empty.

How do insulated water bottles work?

There is a ton of science behind thermoregulation, but in simplest terms, the insulating layers of a water bottle act as a barrier to prevent the heat transfer that occurs during conduction and convection. This way, the contents of your water bottle are protected from any temperature difference that can cause conduction and convection, and your drink will be able to maintain its original temperature for longer.

The 13 Best Insulated Water Bottles of 2023

No matter what activity you plan on doing—whether it's running, cycling, hiking, or working out in the gym—you need to stay hydrated. While traditional plastic water bottles can undoubtedly quench your thirst, nothing is more satisfying than a swig of cold water from a reusable insulated water bottle after breaking a sweat. Insulated water bottles keep your drinks colder (or hotter) for longer.

“The most important aspect of a water bottle for me is if it keeps my water cold,” Gabby Drucker, NASM CPT, owner and founder of Drucker Fitness, says. “If I'm taking it into a hot yoga class or outside for a workout in the summer, I am especially going to want my water to stay cold.” When looking for an insulated water bottle, we recommend finding one made of durable materials with a liquid capacity that will suit your needs while still being portable.

To find the best insulated water bottles with thermoregulating technology on the market, we reviewed dozens of water bottles from top manufacturers. We prioritize options that offer true insulation while also being versatile for different activities and a great value for the price.

We also had a walking coach and certified group fitness instructor from our Review Board review this article for accuracy surrounding what to look for in insulated water bottles, how they work, and how they should be cleaned.

Based on our research, here are the best insulated water bottles on the market.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Water Bottle at Amazon

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Best Budget:

BOGI Insulated Water Bottle at Amazon

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Best Splurge:

LARQ Bottle PureVis at Amazon

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Best with Double Wall Insulation:

YETI Rambler 18 oz Bottle with Chug Cap at Amazon

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Best with Straw:

S’well Tumbler with Straw at Amazon

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Best for Cycling:

BlenderBottle Radian 26 oz Shaker Cup at Amazon

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Best for Hiking:

Camelbak Stoaway 2L Insulated Reservoir at Camelbak.com

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Best for Running:

Nathan ExoDraw 2.0 Insulated Handheld Soft Flask at REI

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Best Large Capacity:

BUZIO Insulated Water Bottle at Amazon

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Most Portable:

Salomon Standard Insulated Soft Flask at Amazon

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In This Article

Our Picks
How We Selected the Best Insulated Water Bottles
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Fit

4.8

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Dick's View On Hydroflask.com

Pros

High-quality materials
Double-wall insulation
Durable

Cons

Expensive
Heavy

When it comes to insulated water bottles, Hydro Flask always tends to come out on top, and for good reason. This 24-ounce bottle from the iconic brand is made with 18/8 food-grade stainless steel and is the perfect size for everyday use, which is why we chose it as our best overall pick.

In addition to being incredibly durable, it’s also BPA-free and resistant to bacteria and odor. So, you can rest assured knowing your water is clean and won’t have the metallic taste that accompanies other metal water bottles.

It features double-wall vacuum insulation that will keep your drink’s temperature constant for hours and prevent the interior from affecting the exterior of the water bottle. So, your ice water will not make the bottle sweat, even in the hot sun.

Hydro Flask offers insulated water bottles in different sizes and capacities, but this standard size is the most versatile, and its narrow design makes it fit almost anywhere. The Flex Cap it comes with also has a very sturdy retaining strap that can be used to clip the water bottle to a backpack or bag. The mouth measures 18.1 inches in diameter, so it's easy to fill and clean.

Although it’s on the heavier side, this water bottle definitely lives up to its hype, and its impressive insulation makes it well worth the added weight.

Price at time of publication: $45 for 32 oz

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 2.87 x 10.8 inches | Capacity: 24 ounces | Weight: 12.8 ounces | Insulation Time: 24 hours for cold drinks, 12 hours for hot drinks}

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Double-wall insulation
Resistant to corrosion

Cons

Small opening
Heavy

Insulated water bottles can often come at a steep price. For the budget-conscious, we recommend this option that keeps cold drinks ice cold and hot drinks hot without breaking the bank.

The bottle is constructed from 18/8 stainless steel, so it is high in nickel and resistant to corrosion. It has a double-wall design and vacuum seal that keeps cold drinks cold for up to 24 hours and hot drinks hot for 12 hours. Its insulating properties also separate the condensation from the outside, so you can store it almost anywhere without getting your belongings wet.

While the 1.3-inch opening is a bit smaller than other models, it is still large enough to fit ice cubes for an even chillier drink. The design and shape of the water bottle are straightforward and versatile, perfect for any occasion or activity.

It’s available in either a 17- or 25-fluid-ounce capacity and includes a cleaning brush.

Price at time of publication: $12 for 17 oz

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 1.3-inch diameter | Capacity: 17 ounces or 25 ounces | Weight: 17.6 ounces | Insulation Time: 24 hours for cold drinks, 12 hours for hot drinks}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Best Buy View On Bluemercury.com

Pros

Double-wall insulation
Purifies water with the touch of a button

Cons

Expensive
Needs recharging

On the opposite end of the spectrum is this splurge-worthy water bottle by LARQ that has all the bells and whistles. It has double-walled vacuum insulation that will maintain the temperature of your drink for hours on end, no matter if it’s ice water or a hot beverage.

What makes this water bottle really stand out to us, though, is the fact that it’s the world’s first self-cleaning water bottle and water purification system. According to the manufacturer, it uses UV-C LED light to eliminate up to 99 percent of bio-contaminants, like E. coli, from your water and bottle. The self-cleaning mode automatically turns on every 2 hours for added convenience and to make sure your bottle stays clean.

This tech-savvy water bottle has a 17-ounce capacity, and we think it's definitely worth the expensive price tag. Even the sharks on ABC’s Shark Tank seemed to think so.

Price at time of publication: from $99 for 17 oz

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 9.5 x 2.5 inches | Capacity: 17 ounces | Weight: Not listed | Insulation Time: 24 hours for cold drinks, 12 hours for hot drinks}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Dick's View On Dick's

Pros

Double-wall insulation
Great for outdoor use
Leakproof

Cons

Heavy

YETI is an industry leader when it comes to all things outdoors, specifically insulation. Most known for its insulating coolers, the company has been making high-quality gear for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers since 2006. We're not surprised that their insulated water bottle is just as top-notch as their coolers.

The double-walled design is one of the best around and offers leakproof protection on top of temperature regulation. It’s also made from durable stainless steel that can withstand all of the elements, and it holds 26 fluid ounces, which makes it great for long-duration activities.

A particularly unique feature is its two-part Chug Cap. The top half of the cap features a TripleHaul handle that can easily be clipped onto a backpack for convenient travel or twisted off to reveal a narrow spout for controlled sips. The spout is both shatter-resistant and dishwasher safe. Removing both the spout and the handle gets you to the bottle's wide mouth, which makes cleaning, refilling, and adding ice cubes a breeze.

We recommend this water bottle to outdoorsy folks heading on a camping trip, hike, or any other activity in the great outdoors.

Price at time of publication: $30 in black

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 9.6 x 2.7 inches | Capacity: 26 ounces | Weight: 20 ounces | Insulation Time: Not listed}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Swell.com

Pros

Sleek design
Built-in straw
Durable, high-quality materials

Cons

Small capacity

When discussing insulated water bottles, it would be remiss not to mention S’well. The trendy brand has been at the forefront of the sustainable water bottle industry since it was first founded in 2010, and its bottles truly measure up to its reputation.

We love that this water bottle has the sleek design of a tumbler with all the benefits of an insulated water bottle. Plus, it has a built-in straw. It has triple-layered vacuum insulation for maximum temperature retention, and it’s crafted from high-grade 18/8 stainless steel. The tumbler sports a wide-mouth rim, a slide-open lid, and a flexible stainless steel straw.

On top of its sustainability and superior insulation, we like that the tumbler is also incredibly stylish. You can choose a tumbler from the Stone Collection or the Elements Collection, among others, and each collection features a different finish and design. The Stone Collection is a favorite for its stone-like texture that is both durable and easier to grip.

This tumbler holds 24 ounces of liquid and is offered in a variety of hues. We recommend it for trips to the office, iced teas, fountain drinks, and smoothies.

Price at time of publication: $36

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: Not listed | Capacity: 24 ounces | Weight: 11.4 ounces | Insulation Time: 18 hours for cold drinks, 5 hours for hot drinks}

4.4

Walmart

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Blenderbottle.com

Pros

Flexible design
Portable
Easily fits into water bottle holders

Cons

Not as durable
Plastic material isn't as sustainable

Activities like cycling or biking require water bottles that are easy to reach for and portable. We love that this water bottler from Polar is both of those things and doesn’t sacrifice water temperature. It’s triple-insulated to keep water twice as cool, and—since it’s made of plastic—it’s more lightweight than a stainless steel model (although less sustainable).

It comes in 20- or 24-ounce sizes, both of which will fit right into the water bottle cage of a bike. It also has a sports cap and a flexible handle that allow for quick access during a variety of high-endurance activities. Refueling is effortless as well, thanks to its squeezable design and built-in grips. Plus, we love that it comes with a blender ball, so you can mix your water with some protein for on-the-go energy.

This bottle is sure to be a gym bag essential for all kinds of athletes.

Price at time of publication: $25 in matte white

^{Key Specs:}
^{Dimensions: 2.7 x 2.7 x 10.5 inches | Capacity: 26 ounces | Weight: 5.3 oz | Insulation Time: Not listed}

Camel Bak

View On Camelbak.com View On Campsaver.com View On Opticsplanet.com

Pros

Large capacity
Hands-free design
Thermal insulation

Cons

Makes it difficult to wear an additional backpack
Expensive

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just starting out, easy-to-access water is crucial for hiking. This wearable water reservoir and hydration system keeps 70 ounces of water readily available without having to take your pack off.

It also uses thermal insulation technology to regulate the water’s temperature, making it an all-season hiking essential. In the summer, you can enjoy sips of refreshing, cold water, and in the winter, the insulation will keep the water warm enough so that it won’t freeze. Even the drinking tube is insulated to prevent ice build-ups.

The reservoir is super comfortable to wear and features a bite valve cover. We love its large capacity, which means fewer refills and lighter packing, making it ideal for long and short trips.

Price at time of publication: $50

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: Not listed | Capacity: 70 ounces | Weight: 4.5 ounces | Insulation Time: Not listed}

Nathan

View On REI

Pros

Lightweight
Portable and versatile
Easy to hold on runs

Cons

Small capacity
Plastic material isn't as sustainable

We love that this ergonomic flask is so lightweight and comfortable that runners won’t even notice it’s there while still being able to stay hydrated on long runs.

It has a grip-free hand strap that is both adjustable and breathable. The flask itself has built-in pockets for stashing away small items, like keys and nutrition. And the easy-to-squeeze design makes quick hydration simple.

The best part of the bottle is its thermal insulation, which keeps liquids 38 percent cooler than non-insulated flasks, according to the manufacturer. It accommodates 18 fluid ounces of water, and the strap can be removed if you’d prefer to tuck the flask into a vest or coat for optimal portability.

Price at time of publication: $55

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: Not listed | Capacity: 18 ounces | Weight: 3.2 ounces | Insulation Time: Not listed}

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Sweatproof
Grippy powder coating

Cons

Prone to denting
Heavy

If you are looking for a water bottle you don’t have to keep refilling throughout the day, we recommend this option that holds an impressive amount of water and will keep every last drop of it cool. It uses the brand’s signature TempArmour technology to keep cold drinks cold for up to 48 hours and hot drinks hot for up to 24 hours. Pair it with the best shoes for walking on ice and you'll stay warm inside and out.

We love that it's made from durable 18/8 stainless steel that is protected from both oxidation and flavor transfer. The exterior has a powder coating that provides extra grip and does not sweat.

Although the water bottle comes in five different sizes, we recommend the large-capacity 64- and 87-ounce options for long-duration activities and all-day use. You can choose from countless different colorways, including chic, subtly ombrè designs.

In addition to the water bottle, you’ll also get two straws, a straw cleaner, a carrying bag, and two different leakproof caps.

Price at time of publication: $50 for 87 oz in shadow

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 4.9 x 2.1 x 9.8 inches | Capacity: 22-, 32-, 40-, 64-, or 87-ounce options | Weight: 51 ounces | Insulation Time: 48 hours for cold drinks, 24 hours for hot drinks}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Salomon.com

Pros

Collapsible design
Prevents water from freezing

Cons

Small capacity

This unique flask is as versatile and portable as it gets. It has dual-skin insulation to keep drinks cool in the summer and prevent ice from forming in the winter. Not to mention, the collapsible, flexible design makes it easy to pack or take on the go when you’re on the move.

We love that the flask is squeezable and has a built-in grippy handle, so drinking from it is very easy, and you won’t even have to take your gloves off in the winter. It also features an innovative bite valve and flip-top for easy drinking.

While it only holds 13 ounces of water, it will minimize in size as you drink, making it an excellent choice for hiking, camping, biking, or any activity that requires a space-efficient option.

Price at time of publication: $35

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: Not listed | Capacity: 13 ounces | Weight: 2.2 ounces | Insulation Time: Not listed}

4.6

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Brita.com

Pros

Filters and cleans water
Double-wall insulation

Cons

Filter stick replacements sold separately

The benefits of drinking clean water are endless, and with this water bottle from Brita, the brand most known for its water filtration systems, you can drink clean, filtered water on the go. The bottle comes equipped with a replaceable Brita water filter that fits right into the built-in straw and reduces chlorine as you drink.

On top of providing cleaner, better-tasting water, we also love that it has double-wall insulation to keep water cold for 24 hours. It will hold 32 ounces of water, and its stainless steel construction makes it durable enough for any occasion or activity.

The brand recommends that the filter be replaced every two months to ensure you get fresh-tasting water with every gulp.

Price at time of publication: from $42 for 32 oz in carbon

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 3.8 x 10.6 inches | Capacity: 32 ounces | Weight: 17.6 ounces | Insulation Time: 24 hours for cold water drinks only}

Brumate

View On Brumate.com

Pros

Maintains temperature and carbonation
Large capacity
Keeps drinks cold for 48 hours

Cons

Bulky

We recommend this insulated water bottle to fans of carbonated drinks, including seltzer water and the occasional soft drink. This bottle is able to keep beverages both cool and carbonated for up to 48 hours. It’s triple insulated and made from thick stainless steel—but without the metallic aftertaste. The nonslip base and airtight lid are also handy features.

The GROWL'R holds 64 ounces of liquid. Despite its considerable size, the water bottle is still great for travel, and the cap also functions as a clip for easy attachment to a backpack. It’s ideal for long weekends, camping trips, tailgates, and pretty much any occasion.

Price at time of publication: $50

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 4.8 x 12.1 inches | Capacity: 64 ounces | Weight: Not listed | Insulation Time: 48 hours for cold drinks only}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Thermos.com

Pros

BPA-free
Easy for kids to use

Cons

Can only be used with cold drinks

It’s important for kids to stay hydrated too, and this kid-friendly insulated water bottle will definitely encourage little ones to drink water more often. It uses vacuum insulation technology to keep water cool for up to 12 hours, and it’s made with durable stainless steel to handle drops or roughhousing. We also love that it's BPA-free and safe for children.

It features a pop-out straw that is easy for kiddos to drink out of and a hygienic lid that keeps bacteria out. A simple push button quickly opens the lid to reveal the straw, which can be removed for cleaning. The entire water bottle is dishwasher safe, but washing by hand with gentle detergent is recommended.

With a 12-ounce capacity, it’s the perfect size for children of all ages and a great everyday water bottle for school, sports, or activities. Plus, kids are sure to get a kick out of the fun patterns and colors it comes in, like Mario Kart, Baby Yoda, and Barbie, among many others.

Price at time of publication: $19 in Baby Shark

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 2.6 x 2.6 x 7 inches | Capacity: 12 ounces | Weight: 4 ounces | Insulation Time: 12 hours for cold water drinks only}

Final Verdict

Hydro Flask’s Standard Water Bottle stands out to us for its durability, optimal insulation performance, and sleek design. It holds more water than your standard plastic water bottle but still remains easy to carry around or fit in your gym bag.

For a budget-friendly pick, you can’t go wrong with BOGI's Insulated Water Bottle. It’s a no-frills insulated water bottle that gets the job done and keeps water cold for 24 hours. You won't have to worry about condensation, a metallic aftertaste, or corrosion with this water bottle.

How We Selected the Best Insulated Water Bottles

When determining the best insulated water bottles on the market, we analyzed key specs and read customer reviews for dozens of insulated water bottles from top, trusted brands. We also spoke to experts—including a certified personal trainer and a hiking guide—to get their input on what features to look for in an insulated water bottle.

When selecting our top picks, we considered factors like price, durability, and insulation performance. We also looked at how portable each water bottle is and if it could serve multiple purposes, like keeping drinks both hot and cold.

We favored options that provide both optimal heat retention and versatility. Features like self-cleaning technology, filters, and leakproof protection were also taken into consideration.

We also consulted to expert Gabby Drucker, NASM CPT, owner and founder of Drucker Fitness based in Westchester, New York, to get a professional input on the best insulated water bottles.

What to Look For in an Insulated Water Bottle

Capacity and Size

When shopping for an insulated water bottle, size and capacity are definitely factors worth considering. Both will depend on the activity you intend to use the water bottle for as well as your personal preference. For instance, hiking and camping may require a larger capacity, whereas smaller and lighter water bottles are better suited for activities like running or biking.

“For a half-day hike, which is usually 3 to 4 hours, I recommend having around a liter an hour of water,” Jackson Donnelly, founder and lead guide of Hike with Jackson, a guided hiking service in the Adirondack Mountains and Lake George area, says. “Although it’s on the high end, hydration is the most important thing with hiking, and this way, you have some extra water in case of emergency,” Donnelly adds.

Material and Durability

In addition to capacity and thermoregulation ability, you'll want to consider the water bottle's durability. Look for water bottles made of stainless steel, which are more durable than plastic bottles.

“I need a water bottle that is durable,” Drucker says. “I spend hours every day in my gym, surrounded by dumbbells and kettlebells. I am constantly dropping my water bottle or knocking it over between exercises, and I need a water bottle that isn't going to break or get smashed,” she says.

There are also different grades of stainless steel, which will determine how durable the water bottle is, as well as how resistant it is to corrosion, oxidation, and odor. You’ll often see the numbers 18/8 and 18/10 associated with stainless steel. The first number refers to how much chromium is present, and the second represents the amount of nickel.

Insulation

Double-wall insulation offers the most heat retention and will ensure your water stays colder or hotter for longer. So, look for a water bottle with this kind of construction if you really want your water to maintain its temperature. Also, double-wall insulation can keep the water bottle from "sweating," also known as condensation.

Other features, like a vacuum seal or an airtight lid, will help keep your drink insulated. An insulated sleeve or a water bottle with some thermal technology will also work to some extent, though it likely won’t last as long.

Portability

How easy a water bottle is to transport and access is also an important factor for almost every activity, even one as simple as going to and from the gym. While large capacity water bottles can have many benefits, know that they may also be bulkier in both design and weight, which might not be ideal for certain activities or preferences.

Think about what you will use your water bottle for and how you want to carry it. If you want it to fit into your car’s cup holder, a small gym bag, or in the water bottle cage of a bike, then you should opt for something that leans more on the portable side. For hiking especially, a portable and lightweight bottle is a must. “Water bottles that can clip onto the hip belt of your pack are preferred as it makes them more accessible, which is especially nice in the winter, so you don’t have to take your pack off,” Donnelly says.

The same goes for running or biking, so you should look into a handheld option or a flask.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you freeze insulated water bottles?

While you might be tempted to freeze an insulated water bottle to make it even colder, it is not recommended as it will cause the water bottle to crack or the insulating properties to weaken.
Since most insulated water bottles are made from rigid materials like stainless steel, they do not have the flexibility of plastic bottles. This means that when the water expands upon being frozen, an insulated water bottle will not be able to expand with it.
Do insulated water bottles stop working after a period of time?

Most insulated water bottles can only maintain the temperature of your water for a certain period of time, depending on the bottle’s specific insulation properties. Usually, after 12, 24, or 48 hours you will need to replace the water.
How do you clean an insulated water bottle?

If an insulated water bottle is listed as dishwasher-safe, you can run it through the dishwasher after removing the cap. However, it is recommended that you clean your water bottle by hand every once in a while for a more thorough, effective clean. You can use either a bottle brush or a clean cloth and regular dish soap. It’s also important that you scrub all of the deep corners within the bottle.
For an occasional deep clean, use vinegar, baking soda, or hydrogen peroxide as a cleaning agent. This will help disinfect and sanitize your water bottle—for baking soda and vinegar, combine the agents with water and let it soak overnight, then rinse it out.
Hydrogen peroxide should only be used if there is a musty or metallic smell that won’t go away after attempting other cleaning methods. Put around 60 milliliters of hydrogen peroxide in the bottle and give it a few shakes, then rinse it out.
Can you bring an insulated water bottle on a plane?

Using a reusable, insulated water bottle is not only better for the environment, but it’s also more convenient for you. So, if you’re heading on a trip, you don’t have to worry about throwing out your water bottle at airport security and buying a new one. You can check your bottle through the TSA as long as it is empty.
How do insulated water bottles work?

There is a ton of science behind thermoregulation, but in simplest terms, the insulating layers of a water bottle act as a barrier to prevent the heat transfer that occurs during conduction and convection.
This way, the contents of your water bottle are protected from any temperature difference that can cause conduction and convection, and your drink will be able to maintain its original temperature for longer.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Kelsey Lentz is a New York-based commerce journalist who specializes in lifestyle and health content. In order to put together this list of recommendations, she conducted research on the science behind insulated water bottles and looked at a variety of products across multiple trusted retailers and brands.